BPN415: Localization of Footsteps through Ground Vibrations

Project ID

BPN415

Website

Start Date

Thu 2007-Aug-30 06:41:06

Last Updated

Sun 2008-Jan-27 14:54:45

Abstract

Target localization, the ability to determine the location of a target, is becoming increasingly attractive for purposes of security and automation. Vibrational localization is the method of sensing and calculating the target’s location using vibrations transmitted through the ground. This method of localization does not require a line of sight to the target, is not limited by dilution of precision, and can detect any moving object or person. Vibrational localization was formerly restricted by the noise performance and sensitivity limitations of accelerometers and other circuit components, but these restrictions are becoming less significant with improving technology. The goal of this project is to be able to track a person’s footsteps in a room or hallway to a precision of twenty centimeters.